The stars of BBC’s Outnumbered reunite to voice the audiobook-

W. F. Howes, RBmedia’s UK publishing brand, has scooped the audio rights for Murder Most Foul, the witty and fast-paced debut novel by award-winning director and screenwriter, Guy Jenkin.

The Tudor noir detective novel will be performed by Hugh Dennis and Claire Skinner, co-stars of the hit BBC sitcom Outnumbered, which Guy Jenkin wrote, directed, and produced.

Set in the midst of the deadly plague outbreak in 1593, Murder Most Foul sees William Shakespeare implicated in the murder of his friend and rival, Christopher Marlowe. Teaming up with Marlowe’s sister and old flame Ann, they embark on a quest to clear his name, uncovering a web of treachery and corruption that would inspire Shakespeare’s future masterpieces.

The page-turning murder mystery is Jenkin’s first foray into crime fiction writing, having built an impressive career as a multi BAFTA, RTS, and Emmy Award-winning writer, director, and producer. Alongside Andy Hamilton, Jenkin created some of Britain’s best-loved TV comedy series, including Outnumbered, Kate and Koji, and Drop the Dead Donkey. He also wrote and directed TV films A Very Open Prison and Crossing the Floor, as well as feature films The Sleeping Dictionary and What We Did on Our Holiday.

Guy commented: “I love Tudor history, I love detective fiction and I’ve always wanted to write a novel so this was the perfect solution. I’ve tried to write something smart , funny and fun and I hope everyone enjoys it. I know they’ll enjoy Claire and Hugh reading it.”

Hanna Kenne, W.F. Howes’ Publications Editor acquired the World English Language audio rights from Tom Chalmers, Managing Director at Legend Press. She said: “It is so refreshing to see one of Britain’s most imaginative screenwriters and directors cross over into the world of crime fiction so seamlessly. Bringing his own brand of bold, dark, and quick-witted writing to the genre, Guy has created a really spellbinding story, which Hugh and Claire lift from the page brilliantly. I’m sure listeners all over the world will be captivated by this truly unique audiobook.”

Murder Most Foul is available for preorder now wherever audiobooks are sold. The W. F. Howes audio edition will be published on 6 March 2025, simultaneously alongside the Legend Press paperback and ebook editions.